Friday, July 01, 2011

Scholars examine life and writings of Jocelin of Furness

Jocelin of Furness was one of the most significant writers to emerge from England’s north-west during the Middle Ages, but historians have tended to overlook his work. Now a team of researchers are trying to increase awareness of his importance and what his writings tell us about life at the turn of the 13th century.

A conference about one of the most significant, but shadowy figures in Cumbria’s medieval past will take place next week, as part of a wider project to uncover more about his life and works.

Jocelin of Furness was a monk who lived at the turn of the 13th century, and spent most of his life at Furness Abbey in Cumbria, as his name suggests. He was a hagiographer – a writer of Saints lives – and produced four great works including a life of Ireland’s patron Saint, Patrick.